McLaren Vale drinks maker creates all natural, vegan and gluten-free alternative to soft drinks

THE drinks business is a natural progression for health-conscious Anthony Crabb who has been experimenting with kombucha at home in Willunga for more than 15 years.

Fleurieu locals Anthony and Sara Crabb, who make Mojo Tonic.

THE drinks business, including flavours “not to everyone’s taste” seems like a natural and necessary progression for health-conscious Anthony Crabb and his family. They have been experimenting with the art of kombucha (fermented teas) at home in Willunga for more than 15 years.

“A friend of the family saw growth in this product category overseas. We have always had a keen interest in health and nutrition so, with encouragement from friends, we established MOJO and moved into a (commercial) facility to process and develop our brand of kombucha,” he says. His Organic and Raw business, which produces the drinks, is based in McLaren Vale.

“There was an amazing amount of trialling before our first bottles hit the shelves, but from there the business has exploded.”

Instead of myriad sugar-hit soft drinks on the market, he says his customers are “hooked on this low sugar, bubbly, naturally fermented, probiotic drink”.

New MOJO Tonics have joined the range, providing an “all natural, vegan and gluten-free alternative to traditional soft drinks, juices and sports drinks”.

“The fermented notes of our traditional kombucha recipes aren’t to everyone’s taste, so these new light-bodied Tonics are easy on the palate yet super effective in the gut,” says Crabb, who takes pride in a role that has effectively expanded the availability of natural beverages that support gut health.

“The consumer is constantly evolving and looking for new benefits,” he says, recognising the importance of steering his young Fleurieu business to match the market attitude. “Anything is possible.”

The new 330ml Tonic flavours are a blend of organic coconut water, organic apple cider vinegar, MOJO’s exclusive probiotic strain, and all natural ingredients with “no nasties”. The flavours are sparkling Cola, and Pineapple and Coconut, and Berry Fusion. They are available at selected independent supermarkets and Woolworths for $4-$4.50. organicandraw.com.au